I am looking for a some kind of a craft to do for Christmas Gifts this year last year I did cookies in a jar recipe that Kandy had posted...this year I am looking for something a little different.

So what do you do???? :holiday12

I've already started on my homemade holiday gifts. I am a student, and I get incredibly busy once school starts and I tend to run out of time so this year I started early.

So far I've made a camouflage baby blanket for a nephew. And started sewing a super simple doggie bed for my mom, and an afghan for a niece.

I'll probably just make some super simple bathmilks for the teachers and siblings. But those will wait till December.

Last year a friend gave me a terry cloth dish rag sewed together and filled with corn. You heat it up in the microwave to warm up and then put it wherever aches. Its very nice because it will fit any area. I love it :g_dance:

I've already started on my homemade holiday gifts. I am a student, and I get incredibly busy once school starts and I tend to run out of time so this year I started early.

So far I've made a camouflage baby blanket for a nephew. And started sewing a super simple doggie bed for my mom, and an afghan for a niece.

I'll probably just make some super simple bathmilks for the teachers and siblings. But those will wait till December.

do you have the recipes for those? I would love to make those too..

I'll probably just make some super simple bathmilks for the teachers and siblings. But those will wait till December.

I would like that recipe as well.

Colleen,

I love making mini-scrap books out of paper bags. You can buy a huge stack of holiday paper for 9.88 at JoAnns, and paper bags are cheap. Fill them with photos, or leave them empty.

i have posted directions somewhere here, I'll have to find them. For ideas, Ebay has tons if you search for 'paper bag album'.

I am also making sets of cards this year, birthday/chrismas/thank you, etc. just a variety so recipients can always have some on hand.

those blankets that you tie together make pretty nice gifts, I can get one done in about an hour sitting in front of the tv, if you watch joannes fabrics ads for sales they aren't too expensive & some walmarts carry the plain fabrics pretty cheap for one side

make bath salts with epsom salts

I love the idea of the dishrag filled with corn and the bathmilks if you would post directions/ingredients

those blankets that you tie together make pretty nice gifts, I can get one done in about an hour sitting in front of the tv, if you watch joannes fabrics ads for sales they aren't too expensive & some walmarts carry the plain fabrics pretty cheap for one side


Are there instructions for this? I see fabric on sale all the time at Hobby Lobby.

I make dip mixes. Very simple and inexpensive to do, but always in high demand by my friends and family.

I make dip mixes. Very simple and inexpensive to do, but always in high demand by my friends and family.

What kind of dip mixes do you make thats a neat idea..I made mustard one year for some friends that love my grandpas beer mustard..

I make dip mixes. Very simple and inexpensive to do, but always in high demand by my friends and family.

Do you have a recipe for this??

I am making home made hot chocolate and tree shaped rice crispy treats and then will decorate them with little candies and icing. I also make home made cookies to give out as well.

I wish I was better at crafts. Can someone help me!!!! I need it.

What kind of dip mixes do you make thats a neat idea..I made mustard one year for some friends that love my grandpas beer mustard..

I make 4 different kinds and it varies by year. I have a book with the recipes in it, so I go through and decide which ones sound good to me that year and make them.

I wish I was better at crafts. Can someone help me!!!! I need it.
:gdyeahthat:

What kind of dip mixes do you make thats a neat idea..I made mustard one year for some friends that love my grandpas beer mustard..

I can't remember what the names are, but one was a southwestern style dip and I've made a ranch dip and one that has parmesan cheese and onion flavoring.

Do you have a recipe for this??

I have a whole book of recipes for these. When I get a spare moment and the puppy is asleep, (lol) I will type up a few of them.

I have a whole book of recipes for these. When I get a spare moment and the puppy is asleep, (lol) I will type up a few of them.

That would be wonderful!

Are these a dip already made up? or a powder that they have to finish?

I have a whole book of recipes for these. When I get a spare moment and the puppy is asleep, (lol) I will type up a few of them.


Thank you so much!!!:D

I have an idea of a homemade gift that I want to make for few people, but not sure just how I will go about putting it together.

I want to use simple frames and make mats for a 4x6 photo. Centered at the top, using calligraphy, I want to place the words Remember When or Fond Memories. Under the photo area I want to place the following, a spin off of my favorite proverb....

Today becomes yesterday so fast, and yesterday soon becomes a distant memory. Live your todays in hope of fond memories tomorrow.

I plan to use a snapshot that includes the recipient with family and or friends at a happy event, and enclose a note that the snapshot is just an example of my fond memory of them and that I would love to see what snapshots they use to show their own fond memory.

That is an awesome idea.

That is a wonerful idea....

I paint ceramics and do woodburning....so fun and turns out beautiful!!

Last year a friend gave me a terry cloth dish rag sewed together and filled with corn. You heat it up in the microwave to warm up and then put it wherever aches. Its very nice because it will fit any area. I love it :g_dance:

wow cool idea where could i get corn i assume it is the big kernelled corn that is dried? or popcorn? sorry my mind isnt working today

Are there instructions for this? I see fabric on sale all the time at Hobby Lobby.

http://www.mystuffbags.org/blanket.htm This is the one I use and I use a rotary cutter it goes a LOT faster than cutting. I am debating doing these for teachers this year but I think it may be more than I want to bite off at the moment.

I am also thinking about doing the angel wings ornaments that someone posted here last year.

http://www.mystuffbags.org/blanket.htm This is the one I use and I use a rotary cutter it goes a LOT faster than cutting. I am debating doing these for teachers this year but I think it may be more than I want to bite off at the moment.

I am also thinking about doing the angel wings ornaments that someone posted here last year.


Wow that looks really easy so easy in fact that I think I can do it...Thanks for the link.

I am also thinking about doing the angel wings ornaments that someone posted here last year.[/QUOTE]

Could someone post this again- angel wing ornaments for be good for my sister- she is a carmelite sister and all the nuns would love them.


I buy the cheap mirrors at michael's and add a picket fence to the front and maybe paint a sun- i'll post a pic because they actually look like you took alot of time
I also have taken frames, planters,mirrors, put sand on the bottom and painted a blue water scene on it- then add a small piece of terry for a towel, etc...everyone seems to love them...

This is the thread from last year. I would copy and paste it all but well I am lazy lmao. So just if anyone has questions about the things in the other thread post it here not there because noone is going to see it there since it is in the old forum.
http://www.gottadeal.com/forums/showthread.php?t=60161&page=2&highlight=painted+plate
Jodi (rabx5) is the OP I believe on the angel ornaments and then Paula actually did some and posted the pictures for us to see.

thanx ms_mckenna!!

I think that I'm going to do the mickey wreath..my aunt and uncle just went to dinsey and I think that would be a neat idea for them..

Since last year I have fallen in love with making themed wreaths. My sil lives on the beach so I made her a collection of nautical themed wreaths for all year round.

This is the thread from last year. I would copy and paste it all but well I am lazy lmao. So just if anyone has questions about the things in the other thread post it here not there because noone is going to see it there since it is in the old forum.
http://www.gottadeal.com/forums/showthread.php?t=60161&page=2&highlight=painted+plate
Jodi (rabx5) is the OP I believe on the angel ornaments and then Paula actually did some and posted the pictures for us to see.


Thanks for the link I think I have found this years teachers gifts this was originally posted by hbooper Snowman Soup
The Soup:

1 package hot chocolate mix
3 Hershey Kisses
15 (or so) marshmallows
1 candy cane

Put the above items in colored plastic wrap
The Poem:
Put on paper
(click here to see label with printable poem tag)
and give with items in a mug

Was told you've been real good this year
Always glad to hear it
With freezing weather drawing near
You'll need to warm the spirit
So here's a little Snowman Soup
Complete with stirring stick
Add hot water, sip it slow
It's sure to do the trick!

Maybe put the hot chocolate in one of those cone shaped baggies then put it all in a mug.

Here are a few recipes for the dip mixes that we make. We use red and green card stock or paper to print the gift tags and add our own little note to it.



Onion Cheese Dip Mix

2 T. minced onion
1 tsp. beef bouillon granules
2 T. Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. garlic salt

Combine the above ingredients and stir until well blended. Place in a 3" x 4" ziplock bag and seal.

Attach a gift tag with the directions on how to prepare the dip.

(Gift Tag)

Onion Cheese Dip

1 pkg. Onion Cheese Dip Mix
2 C. sour cream

Combine the Onion Cheese Dip Mix with the sour cream. Stir until well blended. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve with chips, crackers or fresh vegetables.



Bacon Dip Mix

4 T. bacon bits
2 tsp. beef bouillon granules
2 T. minced onion
1/4 tsp. minced garlic

Combine the above ingredients and stir until well blended. Place in a 3" x 4" ziplock bag and seal.

Attach a gift tag with the directions on how to prepare the dip.

(Gift Tag)

Bacon Dip Mix

1 pkg. Bacon Dip Mix
2 C. sour cream

Combine the Bacon Dip Mix with the sour cream. Stir until well blended. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve with chips, crackers or fresh vegetables.



Mexican Fiesta Dip Mix

1 T. chili powder
2 tsp. dried parsley
1 tsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. dried cilantro
1/8 heaping tsp. cayenne pepper
1/8 heaping tsp. pepper
1/8 heaping tsp. salt

Combine the above ingredients and stir until well blended. Place in a 3" x 4" ziplock bag and seal.

Attach a gift tag with the directions on how to prepare the dip.

(Gift Tag)

Mexican Fiesta Dip Mix

1 pkg. Mexican Fiesta Dip Mix
1 C. mayonnaise or salad dressing
1 C. Sour Cream

Combine the Mexican Fiesta Dip Mix with the mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir until well blended. Cover and refrigerate. Dip is better if made 8 hours before serving. Serve with chips, crackers or fresh vegetables.

Wow, great ideas! I love the dip mixes, have bachelor brothers and other friends that would love them!

Thanks for the recipes

this is one my friends really liked.

I picked up a basket and threw in- coffee mug, 2 packets hot chocolate, book they may like,
pop, popcorn to pop, a gift card to rent a movie at the gas station, and some small sample size lotion, and bubble bath.

You can also make cold packs with rice.:)

COLD PACK:Just fill a large freezer bag about half way with uncooked rice and freeze. The rice will retain the cold and make an efective ice pack when you need one to cool an injury.

HOT PACK:Just fill the bottom of a cotton sock (old tube sock will do) with uncooked rice and tie off the top. Microwave until hot. It may only take 30 seconds to 1 minute to reach your desired temperature so keep a close eye om it the first time you heat it up. It can burn you if you leave it in too long.

You can also add fillings like coarsely broken cinnamon sticks, lavender buds, whole cloves or whole allspice to the heat packs for a nice aroma.

These rice bags can be made in different sizes depending on their intended use. Make a longer shape to lay over the shoulders and neck, or a square one to be laid on arms or legs, or applied to the lower back.

http://www.reddawn.net/quilt/hotpads.htm

You can also make cold packs with rice.:)

COLD PACK:Just fill a large freezer bag about half way with uncooked rice and freeze. The rice will retain the cold and make an efective ice pack when you need one to cool an injury.

HOT PACK:Just fill the bottom of a cotton sock (old tube sock will do) with uncooked rice and tie off the top. Microwave until hot. It may only take 30 seconds to 1 minute to reach your desired temperature so keep a close eye om it the first time you heat it up. It can burn you if you leave it in too long.

You can also add fillings like coarsely broken cinnamon sticks, lavender buds, whole cloves or whole allspice to the heat packs for a nice aroma.

These rice bags can be made in different sizes depending on their intended use. Make a longer shape to lay over the shoulders and neck, or a square one to be laid on arms or legs, or applied to the lower back.

http://www.reddawn.net/quilt/hotpads.htm

I was just wondering if you made this a square could it be used as a hot pad for cooking.. I just thought that would be neat when you put your hot food on it not that our cooking doesn't smell awsome anyway but when the pot or pan goes on it wouldn't that make it smell?

I was just wondering if you made this a square could it be used as a hot pad for cooking.. I just thought that would be neat when you put your hot food on it not that our cooking doesn't smell awsome anyway but when the pot or pan goes on it wouldn't that make it smell?

I don't think it would be practical. Usually if you set a hot pan on something, you want a flat, level surface so it won't tip over and spill.

I bought Paula Deens new holiday baking magazine and they have wonderful recipes for homemake food gifts...Im going to use them to make baskets for my parents and my DH parents

I bought Paula Deens new holiday baking magazine and they have wonderful recipes for homemake food gifts...Im going to use them to make baskets for my parents and my DH parents

would you share some?
k.,m

does anyone know how to make the homemade bath milks and bubblebaths we have such a big family and i was going to make a basket for each of the females with bath stuff razors shampoo comditioner some makeup nail polish and stuff like that but i wanted to put my own personal touch on each of them ...

I would love to

here are some I will post the rest when I get back from picking my daughter up from school


Spice Cake In a Jar
makes 5 jars

1 tablespoon shortening melted
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground mace
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup golden raisins
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup butter. melted
1/3 cup honey
1/3 cup sour cream
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 325, brush 5 (12 ounce) sterilized canning jars with melted shortening. Place jars on a baking sheet; set aside

In a large bowl, combine flour,sugar,baking soda,cinnamon,baking powder,nutmeg,mace,and salt. Stir in pecans and raisins. In a separate bowl, combine milk,butter,honey,sour cream,egg and vanilla; whisk until smooth. Combine milk mixture with flour mixture stirring to combine well. Evenly divide batter between jars, filling each jar approximately half full. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Using kitchen towels remove one jar at a time from oven and carefully place lid and ring on each; screw lids on tightly. Cool jars on counter tops. Once jars have sealed store in a cool place for up to 1 year

______________________________________________________________________________



Gingerbread In a Jar
makes 4 jars

1 tablespoon shortening melted
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup butter melted
1/4 cup dark molasses
1 large egg beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla


Preheat oven to 325, brush 4 (12 ounce) sterilized canning jars with melted shortening. Place jars on a baking sheet; set aside


In a large bowl, combine flour,sugar,ginger,cinnamon,baking powder,baking powder and salt.In a separate bowl, combine milk,butter,molasses,egg and vanilla; whisk until smooth. Combine milk mixture with flour mixture stirring to combine well. Evenly divide batter between jars, filling each jar approximately half full. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Using kitchen towels remove one jar at a time from oven and carefully place lid and ring on each; screw lids on tightly. Cool jars on counter tops. Once jars have sealed store in a cool place for up to 1 year

______________________________________________________________________________



Carrot Nut Bread
makes 6 mini loaves

1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
3 cups finely grated carrot
1 (8 1/4 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
Spiced Butter (see recipe below)

Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease and flour 6 (6x2 1/2 inch) mini loaf pans.

In a large bowl bear butter and sugar at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Beat in eggs and vanilla until fluffy.

In a medium bowl combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to butter mixture beating just until combined Stir in sour cream, grated carrots, crushed pineapple and pecans. Spoon batter into prepared pans and bake for 28 to 30 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool completely on wire racks..Package with Spiced Butter

Spiced butter
makes about 2 1/4 cups

2 cups unsalted butter softened
1/2 cups confectioners sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

In a medium bowl beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy Gradually beat in remaining ingredients. separate into 6 containers and refrigerate.

Bring to room temp before serving

______________________________________________________________________________


Homemade Vanilla Extract
makes 1 (1.75 liter) bottle

6 Madagascar vanilla beans
6 Mexican vanilla beans
1 (1.75 liter) bottle vodka

Split and scrape vanilla beans. Place scraped beans and seeds in vodka bottle. Screw cap on lightly and shake bottle vigorously. Place bottle in a cool Dark place. Shake bottle vigorously once a week for at least 3 months. Store for up to 1 year(it will darken as it ages). Using a funnel pour vanilla extract straining if desired into decorative glass jars to give as gifts


______________________________________________________________________________


Spice Tea Mix
makes 6 (1 cup) gift mixes

2 cups orange flavored drink mix
2 cups lemon flavored ice tea mix
2 cups sweetened lemonade mix
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground allspice

in a large bowl combine orange drink mix and remaining ingredients stirring to mix well spoon into 6 (1 cup) air tight canister or decorative jars

To serve spoon 2 tablespoons mix into 1 cup hot water stir well

______________________________________________________________________________

This is a good site .. it even gives you labels to put on the jars!

http://www.allfreecrafts.com/giftinajar/bath-salts.shtml

They are super easy to make. The essential oils used to scent them with can be pricey - but you only use a few drops at a time so a little goes a long way.

Try a google search for "gifts in a jar". You won't believe the hours you'll spend looking at all the ideas that are out there.

I'm too cheap to buy a book - what can I say? lol

Pinking shears and some fabric swatches are all you need for lid covers. You can buy Mason jars by the case in the grocery store - or even put a post out on Craigs list or your local freecycle. You might be able to pick some up for free. You'd just need to buy the seals.

This is a good site .. it even gives you labels to put on the jars!

http://www.allfreecrafts.com/giftinajar/bath-salts.shtml

They are super easy to make. The essential oils used to scent them with can be pricey - but you only use a few drops at a time so a little goes a long way.


What a cute way to use lightbulbs..I think that I'm going to have my daycare kids make these for x mas gifts to parents. (With all my attention of course!)

This getting to be a great list...thanks

What a cute way to use lightbulbs..I think that I'm going to have my daycare kids make these for x mas gifts to parents. (With all my attention of course!)

I thought so also...I loved the Santa lightbulb

So many idea....so little time....it makes it hard to choose- thanx everyonr for all the great ideas

Here's a site that gives detailed info on making those rice packs -

http://www.reddawn.net/quilt/hotpads.htm

You guys all have great ideas!
Now I know what I can start doing after I get everything done around the house that I want done.

last year one thing that I did was bought some whisk in the dollar section at target and then bought some kisses and filled the inside of the whisk then attached a message with ribbon that said "we whisk you a merry chirstmas"..everyone thought that it was a cute idea.

Thanks, there are alot of great ideas on here.

Such neat ideas here I go off to the store. I will just add to my collection of craft stuff to do!

gotta shop :gdcar: gotta make :idea: gotta wrap:holiday02

I join this site in 05,this my first time posting great ideal..:)

These are great ideas! Thank you :D

I make wind chimes from some weird things.
I went to tag sales and got some forks, knifes and spoons.
Took one of the forks, pulled back the tines and made
a loop. Then I took the knife as it was longer, drilled a hole
@<hidden> the bottom (the thin part) took some white fishing line
made a loop and added the knife in the middle. then i took
2 forks, 2 spoons and a butter knife, drilled holes in the
part you hold on too. Then did the same thing with the
fishing line. You are done.
Also did this last year too, with the golf clubs. (these belonged
to the X). Used a Michigan Wolverines blue golf ball that I
drilled all the way threw. Tied it about 10 times, then used
both hot glue and rubber cement glue on top and bottom
of the ends.
Cut the clubs with the copper wire cutter. Sorry do not know
the real name for it.
Then had the same fishing line, going thru 2 holes I made
with the dremel. Tied them about 5 times each used the same
glues.
Love the sounds of both of them. My neighbor, said she hates
wind chimes. But she did like the sounds of both of mine.
I think I made 26 of the golf clubs, with different golf balls.
But all golf balls were bad ones and different colors.
Only got to make 14 of the silverware ones.
But have more to make this year.

thanks for all the ideas.

JustJules

I was at Michaels over the weekend and I dont know if there is a name for these but they are wooden and they can be a santa, snowman, tree or whatever anyway what they did drilled holes around the entire thing and then you stick Chirstmas lights in it after you paint it I have seen these at craft shows and they are kind of expensive so when I saw that for 9.99 I went and got one and then my grandma and aunt gave me 2 50% off coupons so I got 2 of them for what I paid for the one. I think that $5 and the time spent on it is enough! besides its the thought that counts right!..lol. :)

those blankets that you tie together make pretty nice gifts, I can get one done in about an hour sitting in front of the tv, if you watch joannes fabrics ads for sales they aren't too expensive & some walmarts carry the plain fabrics pretty cheap for one side

make bath salts with epsom salts

I love the idea of the dishrag filled with corn and the bathmilks if you would post directions/ingredients

These blankets are awesome, I made my mom, StepM, cousins, and niece, some last year. On the kids I didn't make them so big, so what I had left over i cut in half and made pillowcases to match (i made the pillows to put in them too.) Joann's was a good place to get the fleece, I caught the sale they have ALL the time and got some from WM too.:cheesy:

Colleen,

I love making mini-scrap books out of paper bags. You can buy a huge stack of holiday paper for 9.88 at JoAnns, and paper bags are cheap. Fill them with photos, or leave them empty.

i have posted directions somewhere here, I'll have to find them. For ideas, Ebay has tons if you search for 'paper bag album'.

I am also making sets of cards this year, birthday/chrismas/thank you, etc. just a variety so recipients can always have some on hand.

I have been tryin to find a way to make my daughter (3 years) a little scrapbook and my BF's sis had one, this just reminded me of it.

Also, LOOOOVE the card set idea, we are a craft obsessed family, but me, my mom and aunt only carry the crafty gene, lol. So my sister and aunt would, LOOve to have this for x-mas. My mom had gotten into the whole card making thing (as every other craft:D ) so Ill go still all her materials (as I always do:D )

Thanks:cheesy:

I did altered paint cans last year! i did the small ones that can be used as a pencil cup or something and i did a big 1 for my cousins family with movies and candy in it! they didnt take too long to do and they are pretty cheap! the little cans are i think 1.98 and the big 1s are like 3.98

Great ideas for the holidays! Thank you so much!!

i go to alot of freebie sites and get the samples for tea and whatever free samples I can find and then i buy small baskets and fill them with samples and use as extra spare gifts, last year I remeber recieving alot of tea and coffee samples so I bought some cute mugs and got a basket and gave to a good friend who I know loves different teas and coffee.

We love to make crafts to give out for the holidays-- Last year we made candle's --
We bought a bunch of the glass sundae type cups or short wine glasses--at garage sales and thrift shops for real cheap and we used old candles and some wax we already had. We put 2 cinnamon sticks in the glasses and then filled them 3/4 of the way up with a creamy
chocolate colored wax with the wick in the middle (of course) and then we put crushed cinnamon in with some white wax poured that on top and and when the wax started to set up we used a little stick to kind of pull up on the wax a little to make it look frothy- We made sets of six for everyone- Everyone seemed to really like them.:)

I can say I am not the craftiest but every one loved the Angel wings, At least I think they did. Or they could have just said they did LOLOLOLOLOLOL

We love to make crafts to give out for the holidays-- Last year we made candle's --
We bought a bunch of the glass sundae type cups or short wine glasses--at garage sales and thrift shops for real cheap and we used old candles and some wax we already had. We put 2 cinnamon sticks in the glasses and then filled them 3/4 of the way up with a creamy
chocolate colored wax with the wick in the middle (of course) and then we put crushed cinnamon in with some white wax poured that on top and and when the wax started to set up we used a little stick to kind of pull up on the wax a little to make it look frothy- We made sets of six for everyone- Everyone seemed to really like them.:)

I've made candles before and you have to be very careful about putting them in thin glass like in a wineglass because it could shatter from the heat of the flame. Heavier glass works best, it won't shatter as easily as the other can.

I've made candles before and you have to be very careful about putting them in thin glass like in a wineglass because it could shatter from the heat of the flame. Heavier glass works best, it won't shatter as easily as the other can.

Yes we bought the thick wine glasses-- Sorry guess I should have mentioned that-
Also you should be carefull while melting the wax as well. :)

Are you looking for family gifts? Or friends? You could make up cookbooks. Start with cheap 3 ring binders, and print up fave recipes. Or if you handwriting is really good, then you can go that route. For family, you can add family favorites- ask everyone for one or two recipes that they love, and compile them.

Baskets are always good too. Cooking baskets- Dollar store spatulas, cookie cutters, cake mix, cupcake pans, sprinkles, etc. Or coffee baskets. Hot chocolate ones. Can you see a theme in my madness? lol

I was at Michaels over the weekend and I dont know if there is a name for these but they are wooden and they can be a santa, snowman, tree or whatever anyway what they did drilled holes around the entire thing and then you stick Chirstmas lights in it after you paint it I have seen these at craft shows and they are kind of expensive so when I saw that for 9.99 I went and got one and then my grandma and aunt gave me 2 50% off coupons so I got 2 of them for what I paid for the one. I think that $5 and the time spent on it is enough! besides its the thought that counts right!..lol. :)



My oldest son & I made two of the Christmas Trees, several years ago. We painted them, Glued on ornaments & snowflakes, and hot glued fake presents to the base, and added the mini christmas lights. We gave my mom one, and I kept the other. They are really cute & easy to make!

For my DS this year I am making a cookbook. I asked each women in the family to give me a recipe that was a family tradition or favorite. I made copies and scrapbooked them on pages with that person's photo, then placed them in a 3 ring binder. I mixed in some new recipes I printed from Pillsbury, Kraftfoods, Copykats too.

You could do just the printed recipes. Check out this site for printing recipes on scrapbook pages. smilebox.com You can copy and paste the recipes from any site right on to the recipe cards.

I made soaps one year and everyone loved them.http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/web/goodthings/gt070_soapcubes2_l.jpg

I used hurricane glasses from the dollar store though.

that is a really neat Idea..with the soaps!

I thought I'd try making some of those caramel apples like you see on QVC for sale this Christmas. We exchange with so many people that it has really gotten out of hand. I figure this year that the kids and I can make some of those with different types of coating on them and maybe make some biscotti for our friends and family that we know really enjoy coffee. If anyone out there has a great recipe for either one of these, I'd LOVE to have it. I make a wicked chocolate biscotti, but thought it could be fun to do a couple different kinds. Also, any suggestions on how to package these would also be great!!:razz:

Love biscotti..Here is a Cranberry Pistachio one that is divine

The only thing that I do differently is I dip half of it in white chocolate when they are cooled


1/4 cup light olive oil
3/4 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 1/2 cups pistachio nuts

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
In a large bowl, mix together oil and sugar until well blended. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, then beat in the eggs. Combine flour, salt, and baking powder; gradually stir into egg mixture. Mix in cranberries and nuts by hand.

Divide dough in half. Form two logs (12x2 inches) on a cookie sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Dough may be sticky; wet hands with cool water to handle dough more easily.

Bake for 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until logs are light brown. Remove from oven, and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven heat to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).

Cut logs on diagonal into 3/4 inch thick slices. Lay on sides on parchment covered cookie sheet. Bake approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until dry; cool.

Love biscotti..Here is a Cranberry Pistachio one that is divine

The only thing that I do differently is I dip half of it in white chocolate when they are cooled


1/4 cup light olive oil
3/4 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 1/2 cups pistachio nuts

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
In a large bowl, mix together oil and sugar until well blended. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, then beat in the eggs. Combine flour, salt, and baking powder; gradually stir into egg mixture. Mix in cranberries and nuts by hand.

Divide dough in half. Form two logs (12x2 inches) on a cookie sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Dough may be sticky; wet hands with cool water to handle dough more easily.

Bake for 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until logs are light brown. Remove from oven, and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven heat to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).

Cut logs on diagonal into 3/4 inch thick slices. Lay on sides on parchment covered cookie sheet. Bake approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until dry; cool.

Thanks so much for this recipe!!! I can't begin to tell you how good it sounds. I NEVER would have thought about this combination. I think I may try it this weekend after I go to the store and get what I need. Thanks so much and I'll let you know how it goes!:gdlicklips:

your very welcome..I love this recipe I only do it for Christmas though or Ill eat it all..lol

your very welcome..I love this recipe I only do it for Christmas though or Ill eat it all..lol


Do you have a pic of what that should end up looking like? :) Thanks ahead of time, it sounds delicious, I just have to see what I should end up with lol.

here is the one from where I originally got the recipe.The picture is actually what made me try them.

http://www.manic.com.sg/recipes/images/pistachio.jpg

OK I know we have a homemade gifts thread but does anyone have ideas for frames? I am not using them for Christmas but I want to send the group from Disney that sent Alex the box a heartfelt gift from us. I want something I can put his picture in along with the Disney box. It has to be something he can help with. I cannot decide if I should make frames or just buy some silver ones and write on the glass a little saying about how they make magic happen. Anyway I would love to see your ideas for homemade frames.

thanks

dose anyone have a ranch dip mix recipe or milkbath recipe

thanks

You can buy those Jiffy Popcorn - pull back the edge and insert your own greeting, decorate the handle and hang it on their door as a gift and a card!!!

My mom started this too. She took carbon paper, put it over the wood then places a picture over the carbon paper. She traces the pictures outline and details then uses the wood burner to create the image onto the wood. The pictures come out beautiful and the detail is unreal.

dose anyone have a ranch dip mix recipe or milkbath recipe

Got this here: http://www.budget101.com/for_the_ladies.htm

I made it for table favors at a spa party.

Chocolate Milk Bath

2 Tbs powdered cocoa
2 C powdered milk

Mix well, put into container. Include a label that says To use: Simply pour under warm running water & enjoy!

Here is another one that I can't wait to try.

Chocolate Milk Bath Bon Bons

Hope this helps!

8 T powdered milk
1 T. cocoa butter
2 T powdered cocoa
Essential oil

Melt cocoa butter, add sifted powdered milk & cocoa. Pack into candy molds of 1T size or bigger & flash freeze for 10 minutes.

To make a chocolate orange scent add 2 -4 drops of orange or neroli essential oil.
For Minted Chocolate add 2-4 drops peppermint essential oil.

To use: 2 per bath (about 2 T.)

Crumble under warm running water as the tub fills.

wow cool idea where could i get corn i assume it is the big kernelled corn that is dried? or popcorn? sorry my mind isnt working today

No... I am making these this year.. but a little different. I use long grain rice. As long as the recipient does not put it in the microwave for too long (usually 2-3 min tops) it will be fine. I mix it with the contents from tea bags (cut the tea bag open and mix with rice) and it smells so good. I usually use a 1 tea bag to 1.5 cups of rice, or something close to that. It all depends on the type of tea.

Another thing I do with them... I made a few samples to decide what patterns I wanted to use, so now all the extras we heat up and throw in the bed with us on a cold night. Nice and toasty!

I made soaps one year and everyone loved them.http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/web/goodthings/gt070_soapcubes2_l.jpg

I used hurricane glasses from the dollar store though.

Ok.. how do you make soaps??? I buy some of the expensive soaps like in the picture.. but I'd love to make them.

Last year for my parents I made each of them a 12 by 12 scrapbook page with pictures of them from high school to present day. I bought a shadowbox frame to put them in..

what's funny though this year is now my mom can not find them--she took the pages out to put in a book and has misplaced them. I could kill her since dummy me (still learning) did NOT make copies of the pictures I used and gave her the originals. :mad: :mad:

but if you are into scraping at all, even the littlest scrapbook is a great idea..

I went to a craft fair this year and my niece bought a pretty hanging that was made out of blank cd's. The lady who made them said she prints pictures off the computer and sticks them on the blank cd or dvd. She then uses toothpicks to put on rickrack, ribbon, paint or whatever else you want to put around the outside. She then puts a ribbon at top to hang up with. If you want to connect 2 or three, she puts ribbon between two cds to make it a hanging. You can use personal pictures if you want. I want to try this but I will not have time this year due to moving in 2 weeks. It was really pretty.

Someone mentioned that GottaDeal has a sister site. I cannot remember what it was and I would like to see it. If anyone remembers this site please post it for me.


Thanks,

Me:confused: